Despite Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka‘s fitness concerns, Mikel Arteta has a lot of attacking options. The impact of the latter’s continued sidelining, which is anticipated to last until after the upcoming international break, is already apparent.
Even though the Gunners defeated Sheffield United five games ago—a feat that isn’t quite what it should be—the issues arising from the Brazilian’s history of missing games extend beyond the player’s position up front. Jesus can also play on the right, which might allow Saka to take a little break if Arteta ever decides to go that route.
Additionally, it would ease the pressure on Eddie Nketiah, who performed admirably in the previous few days against the Blades but struggled against West Ham in midweek on a rotated squad. Even when starting from the bench, Leandro Trossard is still a more potent option, and Gabriel Martinelli hasn’t been able to replicate his individual success from the previous campaign.
All of this has gone to support the theory that, despite Arsenal’s unbeaten record in the Premier League and their opportunity to top the standings against Newcastle on Saturday, the team has not quite lived up to expectations after ten games. However, Arteta may soon have more options to choose from in the front line.
In the event that doubts exist regarding the form and output of the current first-team attackers, young Amario Cozier-Duberry is making an impression. The 18-year-old has been a key member of Mehmet Ali’s squad this season, leading the Under-21 team in goals scored and assists given.
With five victories from eight games, the youthful Gunners are second in Premier League 2. Their only loss came against Nottingham Forest in August. With a brilliant lineup that includes Charles Sagoe Jr., Khayon Edwards, and Cozier-Duberry, the academy team’s attacking play has been exceptionally strong, and their midfield is equally potent.
